The coronavirus pandemic as an opportunity for the rural tourism sector. Ideas and reflections from the pandemic to the tourism of tomorrow

More than two years after the start of the coronavirus pandemic, tourism remains one of the most affected economic sectors. The present work aims to address, on the one hand, the impact of the health crisis on the behavior of consumers in the choice of tourist services, as well as to identify the methods by which these changes in behavior can positively influence the development of the rural tourism sector. Beyond momentary measures, we should look ahead to the future of tourism and identify ways to develop a more resilient and sustainable tourism offer. The experience gained during the health crisis will certainly help us anticipate new trends and consumption patterns. It should be mentioned that in order to benefit from this chance, integrated efforts must be made by all actors involved in the rural tourism sector, so that potential tourists can be guaranteed unforgettable experiences.

Attitudes not set in stone: Existential crises changing residents' irritation

This study discusses the application of Doxey's irritation index in the face of existential crises. Building on the COVID-19 pandemic, data was collected at two time points (prior to the crisis and after the first wave). Our two sequences of data show that residents' attitudes are by no means fixed, with perceptions of overcrowding bouncing back and concerns about reduced economic benefits. In an attempt to develop ample descriptions of emerging concerns during existential crises, three archetypes of residents are identified and displayed using alluvial diagrams: (a) advocates of positive tourism impacts;(b) demanders of sustainable tourism;and (c) boycotters of further tourism developments. Theory is complemented by recalibrating the irritation index with an empirically-grounded existential crisis perspective that demonstrates shifting attitudinal patterns and provides grounds for discussions on the progress of Doxey's irritation index. © 2022 The Authors

Attitudes not set in stone: Existential crises changing residents' irritation

This study discusses the application of Doxey's irritation index in the face of existential crises. Building on the COVID-19 pandemic, data was collected at two time points (prior to the crisis and after the first wave). Our two sequences of data show that residents' attitudes are by no means fixed, with perceptions of overcrowding bouncing back and concerns about reduced economic benefits. In an attempt to develop ample descriptions of emerging concerns during existential crises, three archetypes of residents are identified and displayed using alluvial diagrams: (a) advocates of positive tourism impacts;(b) demanders of sustainable tourism;and (c) boycotters of further tourism developments. Theory is complemented by recalibrating the irritation index with an empirically-grounded existential crisis perspective that demonstrates shifting attitudinal patterns and provides grounds for discussions on the progress of Doxey's irritation index.

Crisis in the city? A systematic literature review of crises and tourism cities

Tourism destinations are prone to crises and disasters that can cause significant loss and damage, with cities even more exposed to such events due to their complex nature. This was evidenced by the current coronavirus pandemic that had a devastating impact for many city destinations. Yet, this is an area of research that has attracted little attention from academics until recently. This study provides an in-depth systematic review of the research published to date on crises in tourism cities and discusses how this field has evolved over the years. The findings show that while there is a healthy amount of literature on crises in cities and a consistent body of knowledge on tourism crises, cities are somewhat overlooked in the context of tourism crises. Several other imbalances are highlighted regarding the type of crises discussed, regions studied, research methods employed, and topics discussed. Finally, several avenues for future research are proposed.

TOURIST GUIDES, COVID 19 and SURVIVAL MECHANISMS in SOUTH AFRICA

The main aim of this research was to investigate the survival mechanisms employed by tourist guides in the context of the Covid 19 Pandemic. A mixed method research design was adopted, using in-depth interviews with key tourism informants and surveys administered to tourist guides in Gauteng. A total of five key informant interviews and two hundred surveys were collected at the end of the data collection period. Key findings indicate that many tourist guides were unable to access the aforementioned fund and had to implement their own short and long-term survival mechanisms. In many cases, various cost cutting measures were implemented and the utilization of personal savings and loans. Other guides temporarily engaged in different employment to secure an income. This study presents policy and systemic recommendations, which, if accepted and implemented, could assist the reignition of the tourist guide profession post-pandemic and ensure they form part of the tourism sector recovery trajectory. Additionally, further research on tourist guides in South Africa needs to be conducted, to fully understand the various aspects of this profession in the country. © 2021 Editura Universitatii din Oradea. All rights reserved.